Your home is a reflection of who you are, and its aesthetic can greatly influence how you and your guests feel within it. However, there are certain décor choices that can inadvertently make your living space feel less sophisticated and more budget-conscious.

In this article, we will explore ten common elements that can make your home look cheap, providing insights into how to elevate your living space.

1. Fake Leather Sofas

While faux leather sofas may seem like a cost-effective option, they often lack the quality and elegance of genuine leather. Over time, these sofas can crack and peel, giving your home an unrefined appearance. Investing in a high-quality fabric or real leather not only enhances durability but also adds a touch of class to your living space.

Swap For: Clean-lined fabric or Faux Suede sofa in neutral tones (olive, beige, gray)

2. Textual Picture Frames

Frames that boast quotes or phrases can often come off as more cliché than charming. Instead, opt for simple, elegant frames that allow your cherished memories to stand out.

Uniformity in frame color and style can contribute to a sophisticated gallery wall rather than a cluttered display of mixed messages.

Swap For: Minimalist wall art usually in a trio form

3. Too Much Chintz

Overusing chintz fabrics can overwhelm your space and create a gaudy aesthetic. Emphasize moderation by using chintz as an accent rather than a predominant element. This allows the fabric's charm to shine without turning your home into a floral overload.

Swap For: Solid and consistent color patterns

4. Short Curtains

Short curtains can truncate your space, making ceilings seem lower and rooms less expansive. Opt for long curtains that extend from the ceiling to the floor; this technique creates an illusion of height and elegance. Choose neutral or understated patterns for a timeless look.

An unspoken rule in design is that curtains should at least kiss the floor. If let's say you don't have the budget to get custom-length drapes, then leave your windows bare. That may seem crazy, but believe me, bare windows look better than those with awkwardly hanging curtains.

Swap For: Customized or Floor-touching curtains

5. DIY Décor

While creativity is commendable, not all DIY projects elevate your space—some can actually cheapen it. For example, mismatched popsicle stick photo frames or unevenly painted mason jars might come off more craft fair than curated.

Instead, try elevated DIYs like a minimalist wall hanging made from natural fibers, a hand-poured soy candle in a sleek ceramic vessel, or a framed abstract art piece using textured spackle. These still let your creativity shine—just with a bit more polish and sophistication.

Swap For: A balance of handmade and purchased items

6. Clutter

Excessive clutter can make even the most stylish home appear chaotic and inexpensive. Regularly declutter your space, keeping it clean and organized. Utilize decorative storage solutions that combine functionality with aesthetics, ensuring your home remains inviting and sophisticated.

Swap For: Opt for hidden storage options like ottomans or hidden compartments in your furniture.

7. Outdated Appliances

Old kitchen appliances can detract from the modern feel of your home. If your appliances are vintage in style rather than trendy, consider upgrading to sleek, stainless steel options.

Newer models not only improve the functionality but also enhance the overall appeal of your kitchen.

Swap For: If replacing isn't an option, keep your kitchen tidy and less cluttered.

8. Inexpensive Rugs

Rugs can anchor a room and add warmth, but overly thin or cheaply printed options often fade, fray, or curl at the edges. Instead, invest in a durable area rug, like a wool blend with a subtle pattern or a jute rug for natural texture.

Even budget-friendly options from places like Ruggable, IKEA, or Target can offer style and staying power when chosen carefully. A well-chosen rug doesn't just sit there—it elevates your entire room.

Swap For: Woven wool blends, or low-pile neutrals that add depth without distracting from your décor.

9. Bad Lighting

Poor lighting can instantly cheapen the look and feel of a room, no matter how well it's decorated. Harsh overhead bulbs or outdated fixtures can flatten your space and kill the vibe.

Instead, layer your lighting: use warm ambient light from a pendant or flush mount, add task lighting with a sleek floor lamp near your reading chair, and include accent lighting like wall sconces or LED strip lights under shelves.

Swapping in a statement fixture like a rattan pendant, a mid-century globe chandelier, or even a minimalist black sconce can elevate the entire room.

Swap For: Layered lighting and statement fixtures

10. Oversized Furniture

Lastly, oversized furniture can overwhelm a small space and create an awkward layout. Select appropriately sized pieces that maintain harmony within the room.

This attention to scale can enhance the overall feel, making your home appear thoughtfully arranged and refined. Always measure your room before going to buy anything new. For a living room, at least one-third of the room should be left empty.

Final Thoughts

These are just my thoughts! At the end of the day, "You Do You". Until next Friday:)